Dhaka, Paris discuss trade, defence, legal migration
Bangladesh and France have discussed strengthening bilateral cooperation in trade and investment, defence, aviation, education, culture and legal labour mobility, with both sides also exchanging views on upcoming UN General Assembly priorities and global issues.
French Ambassador to Bangladesh Jean-Marc Séré-Charlet made the remarks during a courtesy call on State Minister for Foreign Affairs Humaiun Kobir at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Dhaka on Thursday.
The ambassador congratulated Humaiun Kobir on his assumption of office and discussed ways to further strengthen the longstanding friendship and partnership between Bangladesh and France.
The state minister appreciated France’s continued engagement with Bangladesh, particularly its support for the country’s socio-economic development, democratic transition and institutional strengthening.
He encouraged greater French investment in Bangladesh and highlighted opportunities for cooperation in infrastructure, renewable energy, space, technology and pharmaceuticals.
The two sides also discussed expanding opportunities for legal and regular labour mobility between Bangladesh and France.
Humaiun Kobir reaffirmed Bangladesh’s zero-tolerance policy towards irregular migration and human trafficking and expressed Dhaka’s readiness to work closely with Paris to address these challenges.
The meeting also covered regional and global issues, including climate change and multilateral engagement. Both sides discussed priorities and expectations ahead of the upcoming UN General Assembly and reiterated their commitment to working together in international forums.
Ambassador Séré-Charlet reaffirmed France’s readiness to enhance cooperation across areas of mutual interest and appreciated the Bangladesh Government’s efforts towards democratic reforms.
The state minister also appreciated France’s continued humanitarian support for the 1.3 million Rohingyas sheltering in Bangladesh.
Both sides expressed readiness to work together towards the safe, voluntary and dignified repatriation of the Rohingyas.
The meeting concluded in a cordial atmosphere, with Bangladesh and France expressing confidence that continued engagement and expanded cooperation would give fresh momentum to bilateral relations.
